In Wisconsin, Senate Minority Leader Melissa Agard is scrambling to push the GOP-controlled legislature to hold a hearing on her cannabis legalization bill.
Despite the popularity of cannabis legalization in Wisconsin, Republican lawmakers have yet to schedule a public hearing, prompting Sen. Agard to launch an online petition to rally the public to her cause.
Senator Agard calls for a public hearing
Sen. Melissa Agard, a staunch supporter of cannabis reform, recently circulated an online petition urging the GOP-controlled Legislature to hold a public hearing on her bill to legalize cannabis. The petition highlights the disconnect between lawmakers and the will of the people, stating, “Republicans cannot continue to ignore the will of the people and must hear the voices of Wisconsinites!” “.
Agard’s cannabis legalization bill includes a series of provisions aimed at creating a regulated and equitable cannabis industry in Wisconsin. Adults aged 21 and older would be allowed to possess up to five ounces of cannabis (140 grams) for personal use and cultivate up to 12 plants.
The bill provides for an excise tax of 15% on cannabis producers and 10% on retailers and lounges, with patients who use cannabis for medical purposes being exempt from this tax. 60% of tax revenues generated would be allocated to a Community Reinvestment Grant Fund, supporting initiatives for women and minority industry participation, health care equity and training law enforcement to combat driving under the influence of cannabis.
Obstacles in Wisconsin’s legislative landscape
Despite the compelling case for legalization, Republican leaders in Wisconsin have been reluctant to advance meaningful cannabis reform. The GOP-controlled Legislature has already voted to remove cannabis reform language from Gov. Tony Evers’ budget request. Although there have been discussions about limited medical cannabis legislation, no official bill has yet been introduced.
GOP Sen. Mary Felzkowski criticized Democrats like Ms. Agard, arguing that their advocacy of full legalization distracts from reform efforts. However, as the minority leader points out, Republicans hold majorities in both chambers, giving them the power to advance whatever reform they choose.
As part of the legislative process, the Wisconsin Department of Finance released a tax estimate that Agard reform would generate nearly $170 million in tax revenue annually, in addition to creating jobs and new opportunities for farmers and communities across Wisconsin.
